Best of Portland: Places to Experience the Holidays

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December 22, 2009 by | Comments (0)

In a city renowned for its unique eateries, spectacular shows, and exceptional opportunities for adventure, it’s no wonder Portland offers a host of great places to experience the best of the holiday season. It is time to take advantage of those well-deserved vacation days, so this week we’re bringing you Portland’s most magnificent places to enjoy the holidays from here through the New Year!

Zoolights at the Oregon Zoo. The allure of exotic animals and mouth-watering elephant ears (the sweet treat of choice for many Portlander’s) has made the Oregon Zoo a top destination since the 1800’s. With the addition of a little holiday magic, this collection of creatures transforms after nightfall. From five o’clock on, the zoo remains open in limited areas, illuminated by over 200 swinging, diving, and leaping animated animals. Mountain goats, leopards, tigers, sea lions, sea otters, polar bears, farm animals, and elephants can still be observed, accompanied by these animated animals. Those visiting the zoo earlier in the day are invited to stay for the zoo light experience, provided they stay in the park until at least four o’clock. Otherwise, tickets cost between $6 and $9, with the option to purchase packages including rides on the zoo train. Views from the train offer some unavailable to those on foot, and a feeling of immersion in the zoo aglow adds something special the experience. The Oregon Zoolights is a great place for dates, and perfect outing for kids of all ages!

See the Nutcracker. Touted by the Oregonian as “a profound pleasure to see,” attending a showing of the George Blanchine’s Nutcracker is a must this holiday season. Few outings rival the sheer traditional value of entering this world of Sugarplum Fairies, dancing snowflakes, and waltzing flowers, as performed by the Oregon Ballet Theater. In true Portland fashion, a visit to the Keller Auditorium offers a complete experience, including festive entertainment in the lobby, and even nightly visits from Santa Clause! It’s a great time to start memorable traditions with loved ones! Visit OBT for ticket information.

Tinsel, Trees, & Tradition at the Pittock Mansion. Previously home to Portland Pioneers, Henry and Georgiana Pittock, the Pittock mansion has stood as a community landmark since 1965. This year, in celebration of Oregon’s 150 years of statehood, many of the rooms have been decorated to reflect different Christmas traditions, including Christmas tree decoration, holiday feast preparation, Christmas card writing, Christmas music playing, and gift giving. This historic mansion is a great destination year-round, and offers an exciting twist on its already impressive offering with this festive redecoration for the holiday season. Open until January 3rd, Tinsel, Trees, & Tradition is an ideal holiday destination for history buffs!

So take your coffee or eggnog to go, and come experience the best of Portland’s holiday happenings! Happy holidays to all!

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